Latest News from Diagnostic Radiology Associates

Once again it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and here at DRA we take mammography seriously as we do all women's health issues. Breast cancer will affect an average of one in eight women sometime in their lifetime. It is the second most common cause of cancer related deaths in women. DRA was the first to bring digital mammography to the Waterbury area and we are proud of our Woman's Center and its total commitment to women's health care. Our team of Technologists are Registered and Certified in Mammography and have over one hundred years experience in mammography amongst them! Dr Eric Hyson who oversees our mamography department is also Chief of Mammography at Waterbury Hospital and has over thirty years experience. (See Mammo Myths below!)

In this newsletter I have listed the new ACS guidelines for Breast Cancer Prevention. They are important to review and pass along. This is also the month to ask your friends if they have had their yearly mammogram. Remember friends don't let friends skip their yearly mammogram!

Donna Johnson

Community Relations Liaison

djohnson@draxray.com

American Cancer Society Guidelines for the Early Detection of Breast Cancer

The following cancer screening guidelines are recommended for those people at average risk for cancer (unless otherwise specified) and without any specific symptoms.

People who are at increased risk for certain cancers may need to follow a different screening schedule, such as starting at an earlier age or being screened more often. Those with symptoms that could be related to cancer should see their doctor right away.

Yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health.
Clinical breast exam (CBE) should be part of a periodic health exam, about every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over.
Women should know how their breasts normally feel and report any breast change promptly to their health care providers. Breast self-exam (BSE) is an option for women in their 20s.
Women at high risk (greater that 20% lifetime risk) should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. Women at moderately increased risk (15% to 20% lifetime risk) should talk to their doctors about the benefits and limitations of adding MRI screening to their yearly mammogram. Yearly MRI screening is not recommended for women whose lifetime risk of breast cancer is less than 15%.

American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2007. Atlanta Ga: American Cancer Society;2007

"Busting Mammo Myths!"

By Eric Hyson, MD
DRA Radiologist & Chief of Mammography at Waterbury Hospital

Every issue we will take a common myth or misconception concerning mammography or breast health and give you the correct information. If you have a question that you would like answered please feel free to contact our office.

"Since I had a normal mammogram last week, if I feel a lump now, I can safely ignore it."

No! Mammography is an important tool in detecting breast cancer at the earliest stage possible, but there are some cancers that can't be seen on mammography. That's why physical exam and mammography are complimentary; each may detect a cancer that the other might miss. If you feel a lump, even if your mammogram is negative, it should be evaluated by your doctor.